How do you go about suing someone for slander?

Answer 1

The black letter definintion of slander is that it is the oral publication of an untrue, defamatory statement, which results in damage to you. Some kinds of defamatory statements, such as the assertion that you are a criminal, or of unchaste character, may fall into the category of slander per se, which means that it is the type of statement that's so bad that damages may presumed. Publication is a key element. If the only communication of the defamatory remark was by the defendant to you, it is not slander. Slander has to be published, or communicated to third parties. The first step in the analysis is almost always an economic one: first, did the statement cause you damage and, second, does the defendant have the money or property to respond to a judgment. Damages may include loss of a job, loss of business, loss of relationships, etc., because the defamatory remarks were believed by others. If the answer to both these questions is yes, then you may have a case that a lawyer will be interested in taking. If not, then you are probably wasting your time. One thing for sure: you should consider going to a lawyer, or to court, only if the slander has had a substantial negative effect on your life and relationships, or has somehow cost you alot of money. If not, suck it up and move on. Good luck.

Answer 2

Libel is usually easier to sue for. That is publishing it in print form. Some states will even consider broadcasting an oral defamatory remark as libel too. It's assumed it was "scripted" in some form (whether from a strictly followed script, or generalized notes) for broadcasting. That being said, the suit could, and should include both libel and slander. Someone at a workplace telling your supervisor you stole supplies from a former employer, padded your hours, and used the company vehicle for commercial purposes for your own business, causing you to be disciplined, demoted, discharged, passed up for promotion or other injurous damages would be cause to sue for slander. You will need someone to testify the person said these things to THEM, otherwise it could be considered hearsay, of a third party not participating in the conversation. If the person took part in the conversation in any capacity, even just to say one word, like "wow", or "oh", then it would be much much easier to get the hearsay argument overruled.

Answer 3

RE:
How do you go about suing someone for slander?

Answer 4

Make sure you have enough proof first and make sure you understand what slander really means in the courts. I've seen alot of cases where people lost their cases because there was really no harm done to the person to be able to sue. You file it in the Small Claims Court.

Answer 5

You should have some kind of documentation to establish and prove the slander or defamation. Then you need to prove that the slander caused you harm and damages such as emotional distress.

Answer 6

Go to your phone book and get the number of an attorney. Make an appointment. IF the attorney thinks you have been slandered, s/he will file the necessary paperwork after you have paid a huge retainer.

Answer 7

you can only sue for slander if what is being said is untrue and it damages your reputation. If you meet that criteria, get a lawyer

Answer 8

first consult a lawyer. see of you have the base for a legitimate lawsuit. if so, file a lawsuit at the local courts. prepare for a legal battle and make time for lengthy proceedings.
good luck hope you win

Answer 9

Get a lawyer.